Greubel Forsey And The Challenge Of Micro Sculptures with Willard Wigan

Once the brand began to use its watches as framework for micro sculptures, Greubel Forsey developed a very unique relationship with contemporary art. To start with, Greubel Forsey got in touch with Willard Wigan. This self-taught English sculptor is able to handcraft figures that can fit into the eye of a needle. Working at micron scale, his art requires a powerful microscope and special physical skills as well as self-made tools. The goal of the Art Piece project at Greubel Forsey was to introduce micro sculptures into watches in order to make them visible. For that purpose, engineers and scientists from various universities worked for four years to develop a micro magnifying glass integrated into a crown on the side of the case. This new way of presenting Wigan’s creations involved new constraints such as shock-resistance. Indeed, Greubel Forsey also had to conceive a reliable system for securing the sculpture inside the watch, and immediately test it with the actual micro sculptures. Absolutely unique, this project is at the moment one of the most extreme and authentic when it comes to literally mixing high horology with art. We interviewed Willard Wigan about his art and his experience with Greubel Forsey. To note: the first Art Pieces are currently being delivered.